I want to see my son but his girlfriend is too anxious | Agony Aunt

Question: My son lives with his girlfriend in London She’s a lovely girl but very nervous about Covid and has hardly been out of the house for the past year. As a result, I’ve not seen my son since last June. I get on well with her, but this is seriously getting me down.I’ve told my son that if they would be prepared to come and see me, I’d be prepared to isolate myself for a couple of weeks beforehand, if that would help.

Even so, he’s not prepared to push it with her. We have video calls at least twice a week, but it’s not the same. I can’t go on like this and I feel so alone and isolated.

Answer: I really do understand how you feel about this, but trying to push someone with anxiety issues is only going to make things worse. Worse for her, and worse for your son who lives with her.While you are doing all you can to reassure her, you will have to let her do this in her own time.

This pandemic and our isolation from one another seems interminable – but it will pass.

I HATE MY DARK BODY HAIR

Question:I don’t know what to do about the amount of dark hair on my face, arms and legs. I am 22 and have never had a boyfriend because I am too afraid to let people see me up close. I think the hair looks revolting and have tried all sorts of creams, but nothing works.

I have also tried shaving, but it soon grew back. I’m sure you’ll think this is silly, but I can’t feel like a woman while I look so horrible and, at times, I feel my life isn’t worth living.

Answer: Some people do have more, or darker body hair than others – and that’s nothing to be ashamed of – but if you feel yours is excessive, you really need to speak to your GP, as this might very well be a hormonal problem.

If your doctor feels it is only cosmetic, you could consider options such as electrolysis. This is a permanent solution, which destroys the root of the hair and prevents further growth, unlike creams. Contact the British Institute and Association of Electrolysis (electrolysis.co.uk), for a list of qualified practitioners.